US Army Celebrates 251st Anniversary

The U.S. Army is marking its 251st anniversary this weekend with various events across the nation, including a notable Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Freedom 250 event hosted at the White House.

On Friday, the Army hinted at their partnership with X for the UFC fight card, stating, “The U.S. Army is taking over the Octagon.”

The commemoration peaks on Sunday, which is the official Army birthday. A formal wreath-laying ceremony is scheduled for the morning at Arlington National Cemetery and will be streamed live from the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

After the ceremony, there will be a UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest starting Saturday afternoon, followed by Army’s special appearance at a major wrestling event.

“U.S. Army warfighters will participate in a special pregame program that focuses on military readiness and tradition,” the Army announced.

This weekend also features the first outdoor mixed martial arts event set to take place on the South Lawn of the White House, attended by a crowd of military personnel.

On Sunday, the Association of the United States Army, along with the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission, will unveil a new historical marker that will recognize the Army’s beginnings near Independence Hall in Philadelphia.

The Army, originally founded as the Continental Army on June 14, 1775, predates the Declaration of Independence by over a year.

To celebrate this significant milestone, birthday balls and formal ceremonies are being organized at Army bases worldwide, with additional national festivities across the United States.

The U.S. Army Military District of Washington kicked off the anniversary weekend on Friday with the annual Army Birthday Run. This event drew military and Department of the Army personnel for a morning run from Joint Base Meyer-Henderson Hall to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

“We had about 350 people in attendance today, just short of 350, but it was one of the largest gatherings we’ve ever had. Thank you to everyone who attended,” said Scott Abel, the Director of Families, Morale, Welfare, and Recreation at Fort McCoy.

The festivities will wrap up on Monday with “Army Day” at Washington Nationals Park, aimed at honoring soldiers, veterans, and military families. This event will feature live performances by the U.S. Army Parachute Team and Drill Team as the Nationals face off against the Kansas City Royals.